York house building numbers prompt criticism

 Government acts to encourage more small brownfield development

Local developers have criticised the York Council Leadership as house building numbers have stalled in the City. Figures released by the “Centre for City’s” reveal that the number of new homes built last year was among the lowest in the country.

housing completions in York

housing completions in York

Although the figures are disputed by Council planners, there is no doubt that building work has been slower over the last couple of years than might have been expected as the country emerged from the recession.

The number of sites granted planning permission has increased over the last  2 years meaning that there is a potential supply of land sufficient to allow around 800 additional homes to be constructed each year during the next five years.

Small developers claim that onerous S106 restrictions (which include a requirement to make a contribution towards the supply of affordable homes) are preventing a start being made on some sites.

House price trends in York click to enlarge

House price trends in York click to enlarge

The government has now intervened and announced that there will be no affordable housing requirement on sites of 10 or less homes.

Full details of the announcement, made last month, can be found here. Click

It has been suggested that the York Council should “fast track” the change and reduce the S106 requirements immediately.

An increase in the numbers of homes coming onto the open market would have the effect of stabilising house prices which are showing signs of increasing in York (having been level for the last 8 years)

Average house prices in different York neighbourhoods click to enlarge

Average house prices in different York neighbourhoods click to enlarge

Stable house prices do benefit first time buyers.  

However, additionally, the York Council should proceed more quickly with the provision of additional low rent social housing.

At present the York Council has a surplus of nearly £13 million on its (Council house) rent account.

The Centre for City’s report will be discussed at a Council meeting next week

Free childcare reminder

Parents of toddlers in York are being reminded to check out whether they’re eligible for free childcare.

From 1 January over 585 two-year-olds in York are eligible for up to 15 hours of free childcare a week at a playgroup, day nursery or with a childminder as part of a national initiative.

Parents, who earn no more than £16,190 a year and receive Working Tax Credits, Child Tax Credit or Income Support, could be eligible for a free childcare place. Two-year-olds, who are looked after by the council automatically qualify for a place.

Since September 2014, children with special educational needs, those who have been adopted or with a residency/special guardianship order also qualify for a place.

The free places are available to children who are two years of age and whose parents fulfil the criteria. The places can be taken up the term after the child’s second birthday.

Parents can apply on line at www.yor-ok.org.uk/childcare or to find out more call the Family Information Service on 01904 554444 or text ‘’free place’ to 07624 802244.

Tickets still available as Lord Mayor prepares for Valentine Ball

Tickets are still available for the Lord Mayor’s Annual Valentine Ball, which is taking place in the Voltigeur Suite at York Racecourse on Saturday 14 February.

The event is hosted by the Lord Mayor and Civic Party in support of their two charities, York Against Cancer and the York Teaching Hospital Charity and will include dinner and entertainment.

Tickets for the event cost £65.00 and include a fabulous four course dinner, generously sponsored by Coles Solicitors and Cross of York and prepared by the chefs at York Racecourse.  There will be entertainment from Pure Silk, a ‘Hearts and Roses’ Valentine themed evening, with roses provided by Dutch Nurseries and with lots of fabulous prizes to be won in the fundraising activities.
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Communities urged to sign up to Big Energy Race!

City of York Council is urging residents and community groups to sign up to the Big Energy Race which could see them win £20,000 towards a community project of their choice.

The Big Energy Race sees groups and individuals promote energy saving in their local community, which can help to make a real difference to peoples energy bills.Alongside the grand prize of £20,000 towards a community project there are also individual, team and regional prizes to be won. This provides plenty of opportunities for everyone involved to have their moment to shine.

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